I recently found out that I have an unwelcome guest in my chest. Its name is Triple Negative Breast Cancer. I’ve created a Facebook group (Kathy's Cancer Chronicles) for those of you that I thought would like to receive updates about the roller coaster ride I am about to embark on as I reluctantly accept my fate as a host. Please know that I wish I would have had the time to reach out to you each of you individually to break this news, but it has already been a bit of a whirlwind. Triple Negative Breast Cancer accounts for 10-15% of breast cancers. It tends to grow and spread more quickly than other types and has a higher rate of recurrence risk. It can be more difficult to treat because it lacks progesterone and estrogen receptors as well as the Her2 protein that can receive more targeted treatments. TNBC is usually treated with surgery, radiation, chemo and immunotherapy. The good news is that I found it early while showering. Ladies remember to do your self checks! After a series of mammograms, ultrasounds, MRI's and biopsies the tumor on my right side was determined to be Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. They also found an area of atypical cells on my left. After testing of the biopsies was finalized I learned of the TNBC diagnoses. My cancer is currently considered a clinical stage 1 because there is only one tumor and it is less than 2cm (1.7). The battle between medical providers/treatments and my cancer begins on April 23rd, with chemical warfare being the first line of attack. My first chemo will consist of 4 cycles of combo of adriamycin and cytoxan (every two weeks). This will be followed by Taxol and surgery but I don't know the schedule for those yet. My job during this is to continue to nourish my mind, body and soul with food, family and friendship. The last few weeks have been filled with so much love and support. I appreciate all of you and want to remain as active and connected as possible when I can. In the meantime, please keep sending your amazing healing energy and prayers. I feel you.